CT AORTIC ANGIOGRAM

A CT AORTIC ANGIOGRAM is a quick, non-invasive scan that maps the aorta from chest to abdomen in sub-millimetre detail. At Cadabams Diagnostics, we use 128-slice dual-source CT scanners that complete the exam in <10 seconds, delivering 70 % less radiation than older machines. Whether your doctor wants to rule out an aortic aneurysm or plan a stent, our same-day reporting keeps your treatment moving.

What is CT Angiography (CTA)?

CT angiography combines X-rays and iodine-based contrast dye to create 3-D pictures of blood vessels. When the scan focuses on the body’s largest artery, it is called a CT AORTIC ANGIOGRAM. The test shows:

• Aortic diameter (normal <3 cm)
• Wall tears (aortic dissection)
• Blood clots, plaques and post-surgical leaks
  No catheter is inserted into the heart, so discomfort and risk are minimal.

When and Who Needs to Take a CT Angiography (CTA)?

Your cardiologist or vascular surgeon may advise the exam if you have:

• Sudden chest/back pain (possible aortic dissection)
• Pulsating abdominal mass (possible aortic aneurysm)
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Family history of aortic disease
• Pre-operative planning for bypass or stent

• Aortic diameter at root, arch, descending and infra-renal segments
• True vs false lumen in dissection
• Contrast enhancement uniformity
• Stent graft apposition and endoleak grade
• Access vessel tortuosity for TEVAR planning

• Rule out life-threatening aortic dissection within 20 minutes.
• Size an aortic aneurysm before it reaches 5 cm surgical threshold.
• Follow up after stent graft to detect endoleak early.
• Evaluate congenital anomalies like coarctation.

Benefits of Taking the Test

✓ Painless – only an IV line.
✓ Speed – breath-hold of <10 s; total visit 30 min.
✓ Accuracy – 96 % sensitivity for dissection.
✓ One-stop – calcium scoring included if indicated.
✓ Digital copy – share with any specialist instantly.

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Aortic Angiogram

• Aortic aneurysm
• Aortic dissection
• Intramural haematoma
• Penetrating aortic ulcer
• Coarctation of aorta
• Takayasu arteritis
• Post-traumatic aortic injury

1. 4 hrs fasting – clear fluids allowed.
2. Remove metal – zips, belts, piercings.
3. Wear cotton gown – provided on site.
4. Bring previous CDs – comparison lowers repeat scans.

Pre-requisites

• Latest creatinine & eGFR report (<3 months old).
• List of current medicines – metformin to be paused 48 hrs if eGFR 30-60.
• Pregnancy status – LMP and beta-hCG if applicable.

Best Time to Take the CT Angiography (CTA)

• Elective cases: 7 am–11 am (lowest heart rate improves image quality).
• Emergency: 24x7 availability with on-call radiologist.

Eligibility

Adults >18 yrs with stable vitals.
eGFR >45 (30-45 at doctor’s discretion).
No prior severe contrast reaction.
Pregnancy, uncontrolled hyperthyroidism, acute renal failure.

Procedure for Taking a CT Angiography (CTA)

1. Check-in – 15 min early; consent form.
2. IV line – 18 G cannula in right antecubital vein.
3. Positioning – supine, arms above head.
4. Scout scan – topogram to plan range.
5. Contrast injection – 80–100 ml at 5 ml/s; automatic dual-phase bolus tracking.
6. Image acquisition – arterial phase at 20 s, venous at 70 s if needed.
7. Post-care – 500 ml oral hydration; observe 15 min for rash.

Caution Before Taking the Test

• Metformin – stop 48 hrs and restart after 48 hrs post-exam if renal function stable.
• Beta-blockers – continue unless HR needs lowering.
• Allergy – inform staff of shellfish or iodine rash; we give steroid cover.
• Breast-feeding – pump and discard milk for 24 hrs.